Socialist group to Tinubu: Return fuel subsidy, put political office holders on minimum wage, drop charges against protesters
A socialist group, the Movement for a Socialist Alternative (MSA), has vehemently condemned the ongoing prosecution of 11 activists who participated in the #EndBadGovernance protest.
The trial of the activists, initially slated for November 8, 2024, was adjourned due to January 29 Justice Emeka Nwite’s leave at the Federal High Court.
According to the MSA, the trial of the activists underscores the Tinubu’s regime continued assault on the fundamental rights of citizens.
According to the group in a press statement, the protest that swept the country for 10 days was triggered by the harsh economic policies of the government.
The statement reads: “From August 1 to August 10, 2024, Nigerians from all walks of life—youths, workers, and civil society groups—took to the streets to demand an end to the Tinubu administration’s harsh and exploitative capitalist policies. These policies include the reckless removal of fuel subsidies, skyrocketing petrol prices exceeding N1,000 per litre, and economic mismanagement that has plunged millions into abject poverty.
“The protests also called for:
- A return to the original petrol price of N197 per litre.
- Cuts to the excessive pay of political officeholders, especially in a country declared “broke” by the ruling elite.
- Comprehensive governance reforms to address the systemic corruption and inefficiency plaguing Nigeria.
“Rather than engage with these legitimate demands, the Tinubu regime unleashed brutal repression. Security agencies and hired thugs violently attacked peaceful protesters. Even the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) secretariat was invaded, further eroding civic space. The NLC itself offered mere verbal support, failing to mobilize the broader labour movement in solidarity.
“The Arrests and Charges
“As part of its repressive response, the government arrested, detained, and charged 11 activists with treason, an offense punishable by death. Among those targeted are Daniel Akande, Michael Lenin, Mosiu Sodiq, Innocent Peace, Eleojo, among others. These individuals are being persecuted for their leadership in the protests and their demands for accountability and economic justice.
“Minors were also among those arrested, with reports of malnourished children appearing at court hearings, a situation that drew widespread outrage. This backlash forced the Tinubu government to drop charges against the minors and release 114 other protesters on November 4, 2024. However, the 11 activists facing trial were conspicuously excluded from this amnesty, underscoring the regime’s intent to make an example of them.
“The Broader Implications of Repression
“The Tinubu regime’s actions represent an alarming escalation in its war against dissent. Protest—a cornerstone of any democracy—has been criminalized, civic space suffocated, and human rights flagrantly violated. The regime’s response to the protests not only highlights its disdain for democratic principles but also its commitment to protecting the interests of the political elite at the expense of ordinary Nigerians.
“The judicial system has been weaponized as a tool of oppression, with stringent bail conditions used to delay the release of activists. Even after bail was granted, it took weeks for many of the detainees to secure their freedom due to exorbitant and restrictive terms.
“A Call for Solidarity
“The MSA calls on all Nigerians and the international community to rally in support of the detained activists. This is a pivotal moment for the labour movement, civil society groups, human rights organizations, and trade unions, including the NLC and the TUC, to rise to the occasion. Solidarity actions can include:
- Protests and rallies to demand the immediate dismissal of all charges.
- Petitions to local and international human rights bodies.
- Advocacy through media and social platforms to amplify the plight of the detained activists.
- Coordinated pressure on the government to address the demands of the #EndBadGovernance movement.
“The Way Forward
“The plight of the 11 activists underscores the urgent need for systemic change in Nigeria. Beyond securing their release, it is imperative to confront the structural issues driving economic inequality and repression. This includes:
- Building a mass political movement rooted in socialist principles to challenge the capitalist status quo.
- Advocating for policies that prioritize public welfare, including nationalizing key sectors under democratic workers’ management and control.
- Ensuring accountability for human rights violations perpetrated by state actors during the protests.
“The trial of these 11 activists is not just an attack on them but an attack on every Nigerian who dares to demand justice, equity, and better governance. We must stand united against this political persecution and fight for a society that prioritizes the needs of its people over the greed of a few.
“The Movement for a Socialist Alternative urges all well-meaning individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide to join us in demanding the unconditional release of these activists and the fulfillment of the demands of the #EndBadGovernance movement. Together, we can resist tyranny and build a future rooted in fairness, justice, and equality for all.”
